How do I buy a used car from a private seller without getting ripped off or scamed?

I%26#039;m about to buy a used car and want to buy from a private seller but am worried about getting scamed. As far as I know as long as they sign the title over to you its ok. So can I just hand them 15,000 dollars and get the title and there is no way to get ripped off? What am I suppose to ask the mechanics to look for before purchasing. Anything I should do before purchasing? Thank you!
How do I buy a used car from a private seller without getting ripped off or scamed?
The important thing is to have a qualified mechanic check it out before you but. In my opinion, as long as you check it out, you would stand less chance to be ripped off from a private seller as they%26#039;re not skilled at hiding defects.
How do I buy a used car from a private seller without getting ripped off or scamed?
Look up it%26#039;s value on sites like Kelly Blue Book and Car Max before you even go to see it. Examine the service records. Look up the vin number on one of the approrite sites. If all looks and sounds good, write up a contract that states you will take to mechanic and only give a few hundred dollar deposit at that time; unless the car is still under original factory warranty in which case I would not worry about any mechanical things. Some states require a notery witness the title signing by the seller, and make sure the vin number on dash matches vin on title.
Reply:Take the car to a reputable mechanic that you choose, not the seller, and have the mechanic check everything. If it is pronounced a good car by your mechanic then make sure the title has no lein on it before buying. Look at an identification to insure the person you are dealing with is the person on the title. If more than one person is on the title then check with your states Department of Motor vehicles to see if both are required to sign. Compare the vin number on the title with the one on the car.
Reply:First make sure that the title is clear and the seller has the title in hand. Check the Blue book price for a car of that make, model, and condition. You may want to hop on EBay to see what are other cars of that make and model are selling to give you a comparison. Bring a certified auto mechanic with you to inspect the car. After he has inspected the car, test driven it, you can discuss what he thinks the car is worth. The make a reasonable offer and take it from there.
Reply:The test of the pudding is in the tasting, right? Then, considering all the vin checks, titles or liens, if any, thereof, warranties, and the nod of approval of your mechanic of choice, lift the car and check for signs of collision damage(s). One clue is the spray of extra paint on some parts, if the job was not done expertly. Also, check the tires (see pattern of tread wear) , emissions, upholstery. Go to a car lift, and see the underside. FINALLY, a test drive is a must, on paved and less paved streets. Good luck.